Hawthorn Galleries offers an ever-changing collection of fine art from locally and nationally renowned artists. The two level gallery in the heart of downtown Springfield, Missouri offers a wide variety of original paintings, sculptures, Art glass, and handmade jewelry.

Thomas Wargin

Thomas Wargin

The work in its entirety represents Thomas Wargin as a whole, his interests, abilities and what lies beneath his sub-conscious mind. Wargin's goal is to engage the viewer and stimulate the mind as well as their visual senses. He wants the viewer to go to a place that they can only dream of or hope to be part of. Wargin is sometimes intrigued with childhood stories and he interprets these stories in a fashion that captures the viewer and stirs them into a new way of looking at the story.

The technique Wargin uses to create his work is a blend of old and new practices. He begins with sketches, which evolve into clay or carved 3-dimensional forms. Using various molding techniques, resin models are created, which are then hand packed into flasks with casting sand, ready for the casting process. In his foundry, Wargin melts aluminum and bronze and watches as the molten metal burns new life into the molds. After cooling, parts are assembled for rough fit and positioning. Meticulously, he either welds or drills, taps and screws every component together to check for form, fit, and overall composition. Some pieces are disassembled again to be taken through phases of polishing or sandblasting. Wargin completes the desired finish through high polish buffing or patination. Some of his art is created with a diverse mixture of materials both raw and man made such as: various woods, stone, glass, or even original drawings. With the combination of these materials Wargin's goal is to compliment not compete in the composition and make it more inviting. These types of processes and materials allow Wargin himself and his work to be spontaneous. It also assures each piece to be an original.

Thomas Wargin's goal is to create a unique art form that shares a seamless integration between the surrounding world and the human spirit. All of the work is the growth of his interests, skills and imagination. Wargin personally accomplishes every task in the creation of his work. He feels it harnesses the energy and creativity of his soul.